New pickups for utility, comfort

Chad Bryan, Gleaner Writer

The pickup, pickup truck, 'bakkie', 'ute', utility vehicle, or whatever other designation it is given, is one of the best-selling vehicles in the United States.

The newer editions of the robust, domesticated workhorse possesses the ability to carry and tow large loads, while at the same time providing SUV-like interior comforts to all its users. This week, Automotives takes a look at 2012 pickups available in Jamaica.

Toyota Hilux (Toyota Jamaica)

The 2012 Hilux, celebrated the world over for its legendary ruggedness and anvil-like reliability, still maintains its credentials as a leisure vehicle.

3L double cab (automatic and manual transmissions): Fabric $4.4m, leather $4.546m. Fully powered, ABS, dual airbags, rims and fog lamps

Double cab 4x4: Base price $3.715m, concession $2.990m

Single cab 4x4: base price $3.121m, concession $2.665m.

Colours: black, white, dark grey, silky gold and blue.

Mazda BT-50 (Executive Motors)

With its roomy interior, reminiscent of a medium-sized SUV and its aerodynamic exterior, the BT-50 adds sleekness, comfort and style, all uniquely packed in a well-made automobile.

Base price: $3,329,600m

Concession: $2,818,300m

Double cabin, 2500cc, 5-speed manual transmission, 4WD, turbo diesel, 4 wheel ABS, door impact bar, power-door locks, power-mirror, windows, air conditioning, tilt-adjust steering column, power steering, alloy wheels, side steps, AM/FM ETR/CD/MP3 player, 4 speakers.

Colours: highlight silver, winning blue, dessert bronze, lagoon blue, black and titanium grey.

Nissan Navara 4x4 and Nissan Frontier 4x4 (Fidelity Motors)

The 2012 Nissan Navara appears compact, but is able to maximise on the space contained within the vehicle. The Nissan Frontier boasts adept handling as well as innovative refinements.

Nissan Navara

Price:$4.205m

Concession price: $3.482m

Manual transmission: $3.87m

Concession price: $2.516m

5-speed automatic transmission, power mirrors, central door locks, keyless with immobiliser, fabric seats, side steps, bedliner and fog lamps.

Colours: Dark blue and diamond silver.

Nissan Frontier

Base Price: $2.909m

Concession price: $2.410m

5-seater, 5-speed manual transmission, power steering, front power windows, double cab, quick-glow system and automatic hubs.

Colours: Brilliant silver, dark blue, black and white and dark red.